The sports ministry accused the governing body of hastily announcing championships, leading to the suspension of all WFI activities until further orders.
The decision to host national junior wrestling championships in Nandini Nagar faced scrutiny for potential violations of rules, prompting the ministry’s intervention. The move comes in the wake of sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, and the ministry expressed concerns about the arbitrary actions of the new WFI president.

The ministry’s statement noted, “The actions smack of complete arbitrariness on the part of the new president,” suggesting that the new board “appears to be in complete control of former office bearers.”
The suspension has raised uncertainties about the federation’s standing with United World Wrestling, the international governing body, which had previously suspended WFI. Sanjay Singh’s election had been seen as a potential path to resolving the suspension.
The sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh triggered protests and demands for his removal by top Indian wrestlers earlier this year. Singh has denied all charges, attributing them to a conspiracy to force him out of parliament. A criminal case is ongoing, and Singh could face a five-year prison sentence if found guilty.

The wrestling community in India, particularly in rural northern regions, has been a significant force, with star athletes garnering public support. The recent suspension and controversies within WFI underscore the challenges facing the administration of the sport in the country.
(With agencies inputs)